Wacker Opens Biotechnology Center in Munich
In a new building at the Wacker Consortium, the company's central research site, researchers are working on new manufacturing processes for biopharmaceuticals and ingredients for food and nutritional supplements in 2,200 m2 of laboratory, technical center, and office space.
"The Wacker Biotech Center will allow us to concentrate and intensify our biotech research activities. We see tremendous growth potential in this area, which is why we have decided to go ahead and invest in this sector – even in economically challenging times" explained Wacker CEO, Christian Hartel at the opening ceremony. "With the new Biotechnology Center, Wacker is not only securing high-quality jobs, but also strengthening Bavaria’s expertise in biotechnology. This demonstrates a strong commitment to Bavaria as a business location, and is exactly the kind of project we need to ensure our competitiveness and bring innovations from Bavaria to the world,” affirmed Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger at the opening ceremony.
By bundling biotechnological research and development under one roof, the aim is to make research work more efficient. In addition to efficiency, Wacker is also concerned with speed on the way from the laboratory to broad application. "It is no longer enough to simply have the best solution. It’s becoming increasingly important that we reach the customer with this solution first. Speed is taking on an ever greater role in making us stand out," says Hartel.
This is why the Wacker Biotechnology Center is not just about research. The building opens up opportunities to work even more closely with customers, business partners, biosolutions, and other business units, thus facilitating faster commercialization.
The Wacker Biotechnology Center is integrated into the Group's research site in Munich-Sendling. The company has been conducting basic research here for over 100 years, including in biotechnology since the 1980s. With the expansion of the biotechnology business, Wacker's research capacities have reached their limits. The Wacker Biotechnology Center, with space for around 90 employees and state-of-the-art equipment, now opens up new possibilities.
The new building comprises around 1,500 m2 of laboratory and pilot plant space and around 700 m2 of office space, spread over four floors. Wacker is conducting research here into processes for the production of biopharmaceuticals, the medicines of tomorrow. The focus here is on bioprocesses for the production of proteins and nucleic acids, which are used in the development of novel therapies, for example, on the basis of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA). In addition, the company contributes to the healthy and sustainable nutrition of current and future generations by developing novel ingredients for food and food supplements.
